Softbank Leads $13M in Japanese eCommerce Startup Origami

Japanese eCommerce startup Origami has raised $13 million in series B funding led by SoftBank, Credit Saison and angel investor Makoto Takano. The company aims to utilized the new funding for recruitment and enhancing the user experience.

As per a TechinAsia report, along with this investment, the company has also partnered with SoftBank Group and Credit Saison to fuel its online-to-offline (O2O) focused mobile shopping experience. As a part of the deal, Origami will be directly working with group companies SoftBank Mobile and Generat. Each company has been involved in O2O initiatives and utilizes the parent company’s CouponGATE technology which will also allow for the accumulation of data with a view to offering tailored content in line with each user’s interests and preferences.

The company has launched its mobile app for both Android and iOS users, which allows users to connect with their favorite brands, shops and friends, receiver updates on new releases in a personalized feed and purchase products in-app or in-store. More than 800 brands feature and sell their wares on Origami. The app also allows users to like a product and share their shopping experience with friends.

In 2013, Origami raised $5 million in series A funding and secures $400,000 in seed funding in 2012.